Early KISS Producer Kenny Kerner Dies at 66

Noted music producer/manager/journalist/educator Kenny Kerner, who was instrumental in the early career of iconic rock band KISS and whose credits include gold and platinum awards for Gladys Knight & the Pips and Stories, has died. He was found on May 27, 2014, at his home in Northridge, California. Kerner had suffered from diabetes. He was 66.

Born Kenneth Alan Kerner on July 27, 1947, in New York City, he co-produced, along with partner Richie Wise, the first two albums by KISS: the band's self-titled debut and Hotter Than Hell, both released in 1974. He also co-produced the Number One single "Brother Louie" by Stories and the Top Five records "I've Got To Use My Imagination" and "Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me" by Gladys Knight & the Pips.

Kerner also distinguished himself as a noted lecturer, author (Going Pro) and educator, teaching classes at UCLA Extension. During his lengthy tenure at music college Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California, Kerner helmed MI's Music Business Program, offering fundamental classes to aspiring artists and industry professionals.

Other career credits include stints as a publicist with PR firm Kramer-Reiss-Patricola (comedian Jay Leno and actor Michael J. Fox), management creative consultant with Aucoin Management (KISS, Billy Squire), talent mentor (indie A&R company TAXI) and as an editor/journalist for music industry magazines Cashboxand Music Connection, where he served as Senior Editor. He interviewed such luminaries as legendary music executive Clive Davis and Beatle John Lennon and shepherded early cover stories on Nirvana and Guns N' Roses.

He is survived by his son, Demian, grandsons Jacob and Zachary and his beloved dogs, Girly and Asia.

A memorial service will be held Monday June 2 at 11 a.m. at Oakwood Memorial Park, 22601 Lassen St., Chatsworth, California